Cubes of pressed tofu tossed in cornstarch and soy sauce, then air-fried until shatteringly crisp on the outside and tender within — no deep-frying required.
Tips for the best Air Fryer Crispy Tofu
- Press the tofu well. The drier it starts, the crispier it gets.
- Spread the cubes in a single layer with space between them, and cook in batches if needed.
- Shake the basket halfway so every side browns.
Ingredient swaps
- No cornstarch? Use potato starch or arrowroot.
- For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- No air fryer? Bake on a lined tray in a hot oven, turning once.
Air Fryer Crispy Tofu
Cubes of pressed tofu tossed in cornstarch and soy sauce, then air-fried until shatteringly crisp on the outside and tender within — no deep-frying required.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss the cubes with soy sauce and sesame oil, then let sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavor.
- Sprinkle the cornstarch, garlic powder and onion powder over the tofu and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Arrange the tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crisp on all sides.
- Drizzle with sriracha and garnish with sesame seeds and scallion before serving.
Notes
Don’t skip pressing the tofu — the drier it starts, the crispier it gets in the air fryer.
What to serve with it
- Spicy Peanut Noodles, to toss the tofu through
- Teriyaki Rice Bowl, using the tofu instead of chicken
- Thai Coconut Curry Soup, as a topping
Storing and reheating
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and re-crisp in the air fryer for a few minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Firm or extra-firm tofu?
Either works. Extra-firm holds its shape best and crisps faster.
How do I press tofu without a press?
Wrap it in a clean towel and set something heavy on top for 15 to 20 minutes.
Can I add a sauce?
Yes. Toss the crispy tofu in teriyaki, peanut or sweet chilli sauce right before serving.
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